Vincent Rigby spoke at a McGill roundtable on Arctic sovereignty and security that examined Canada's northern strategy amid rising geopolitical tensions.
He emphasized that national defence cannot be addressed through military means alone, calling for a broader approach grounded in partnership and community well-being.
"You can't have national security without human security," he said, pointing to the need for sustainable development and trust with Indigenous communities.
Rigby also underlined the role of universities in shaping Arctic policy through research and dialogue that connect decision-makers across regions.
